Core Services

As mandated by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, DAWN provides the following five Core Services.

Information and Referral

We maintain comprehensive files on the services available to people with disabilities in the community and refer the individual appropriately. Services may include housing, transportation, personal assistants, employment, interpreter services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, assistive technology, and more.

Independent Living Skills Training

Educational seminars are offered periodically to members to enhance their knowledge of programs, services, benefits and entitlements that may assist them in their goal of living independently. Individualized assistance is provided as needed and available on issues such as money management, self-advocacy and more.

Peer Support

Opportunities are made available to members through social or educational activities to meet and support other members. Members are encouraged to continue this support outside of the organizational activities.

Advocacy

We facilitate opportunities for members to collaborate with other community groups, to advocate for systems change to enhance the lives of persons with disabilities. DAWN also provides individual consumer advocacy, which involves trained staff or volunteers directly assisting an individual in addressing issues of discrimination. If needed, a referral may be made to a legal provider.

Transition Services

DAWN provides services that-

facilitate the transition of individuals with significant disabilities from nursing homes and other institutions to home and community‐based residences, with the requisite supports and services;

provide assistance to individuals with significant disabilities who are at risk of entering institutions so that the individuals may remain in the community; and

facilitate the transition of youth who are individuals with significant disabilities, who were eligible for IEPs under section 614(d) of IDEA, and who have completed their secondary education or otherwise left school, to postsecondary life.